Pet food compositions

Abstract

To provide a pet food composition which may beneficially affect animals, e.g., by either increasing the animal body weight, decreasing the food intake, or affecting both.SOLUTION: A pet food composition comprises propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1 wt.%; about 10 to about 40 wt.% of protein; about 9 to about 25 wt.% of fat; about 10 to about 90 wt.% of carbohydrate, where all weight percentages are based on the total weight of the food composition.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 112,361, filed on November 11, 2020, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] Failure in weight management typically results from either consuming excessive calories and not burning them (which leads to weight gain), or not being able to consume enough calories to maintain weight (which leads to weight loss).

[0003] The health of a domesticated animal may be closely related to its diet. The right diet should result in a healthy and energetic pet. To achieve the right diet, specific ingredients that have beneficial effects on the animal and the concentrations of those ingredients can be utilized. Such beneficial effects may include an increase in the animal's weight, or a decrease in the daily food intake, or both.

[0004] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a pet food composition that can have a beneficial effect on an animal, such as by increasing the animal's weight, or decreasing the food intake, or affecting both.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] This summary is intended to provide a simplified introduction to some aspects of one or more implementations of the present disclosure. The further scope to which the present disclosure applies will become apparent from the "Detailed Description" provided hereinafter. This summary is not a broad overview and is not intended to identify key or important elements of the present teachings nor to delineate the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, its purpose is merely to present one or more concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the "Detailed Description" that follows.

[0006] Applicants have discovered that utilizing certain components within pet food compositions can result in effective health benefits. In one aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the animal's mass. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to decrease the animal's food intake. In another aspect, the benefit may be to decrease the animal's food intake and increase the animal's body weight. In another aspect, the animal may be a companion animal. In another aspect, the animal may be an elderly animal. In another aspect, the animal may be a canine. Thus, in one aspect, the invention is a pet food composition comprising propolis.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the present invention relates to a pet food composition comprising propolis present in an amount of about 0.1% or more, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 15%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 1% to about 10%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 1% to about 5%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 1% to about 3%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 1% to about 2%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition is substantially free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition is free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises from about 6% to about 12% moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises from about 65% to about 85% moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, and tomato.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to a composition for reducing the food intake of a companion animal, the composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than 0.1%, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a canine or feline animal.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to a composition useful for reducing food intake while increasing body weight, the composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than 0.1%, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a canine or feline animal.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to a method for reducing the food intake of a companion animal, the method comprising feeding an effective amount of a pet food composition to the companion animal, the pet food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20%, about 0.5% to about 15%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 3%, or about 1% to about 2% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition is substantially free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition is free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises about 6% to about 12% moisture based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises about 65% to about 85% moisture based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, tomato. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a canine or feline animal.

[0011] In further certain embodiments, the present invention is directed to a method for reducing the food intake and increasing the body weight of a companion animal, the method comprising feeding an effective amount of a pet food composition comprising propolis present in an amount greater than about 0.1% based on the total weight of the pet food composition to the companion animal. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20%, about 0.5% to about 15%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 3%, or about 1% to about 2% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition is substantially free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition is free of antioxidants. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises about 6% to about 12% moisture based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises about 65% to about 85% moisture based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, tomato. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a canine or feline animal.

[0012] The further scope to which the present invention is applicable will become apparent from the "Modes for Carrying Out the Invention" provided below. Naturally, while the "Modes for Carrying Out the Invention" and specific examples show typical embodiments of the present invention, they are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] The features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed "Modes for Carrying Out the Invention" for specific embodiments of the present invention, and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0014]

Figure 1

[0015]

Figure 2

[0016] Naturally, the various aspects are not limited to the compositions, arrangements, and means shown in the figures.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] For illustrative purposes, the principles of the present invention are described by reference to its various exemplary embodiments. Although specific embodiments of the present invention are specifically described herein, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the same principles are equally applicable and can be adopted in other applications and methods. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to the details of any particular embodiment shown in its application. The terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and do not limit the present invention, its application, or its use.

[0018] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context dictates otherwise. The singular form of any class of components refers to not only one chemical species within that class, but also mixtures of those chemical species. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more", and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. The terms "comprising", "including", "containing", and "having" may be used interchangeably. The term "include" should be construed to mean "including but not limited to". The term "including" should be construed to mean "including but not limited to".

[0019] Throughout, the term "range" is used as an abbreviation to describe any and all values within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the end of the range. For example, the range of 0.5 to 6% will explicitly include all intermediate values, among many others, for example 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.9%, up to the upper limit including 5.95%, 5.97%, 5.99%. The same applies to each of the other numerical properties and / or ranges of elements described herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] Unless otherwise specified, all percentages and amounts expressed herein and anywhere in this specification are to be understood as referring to weight percentages of the total composition. Unless otherwise specified, references to components or constituents present as "wt.%" and "weight%" refer to the amount of that component or constituent present in the composition based on the total weight of the composition. Where weight percentages are provided based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis, such weight percentages refer to the weight percentages of that component or constituent in the composition excluding water.

[0021] According to the present application, the use of the term "about" associated with a numerical value refers to a value that may be + / - 5% of that number. As used herein, the term "substantially free of" is intended to mean an amount of less than about 5.0 weight% ("wt."), less than 3.0 wt.%, less than 1.0 wt.%, preferably less than about 0.5 wt.%, more preferably less than about 0.25 wt.% of the composition. The term "free of" as used herein is intended to mean that no detectable amount is present.

[0022] The term "pet food composition" means a composition suitable for ingestion by animals and preferably pets. A pet food composition can be, but is not limited to, a nutritionally balanced composition suitable for daily feeding, and may include supplements and / or treats, which may or may not be nutritionally balanced. The term "nutritionally balanced" means that a composition such as a pet food composition has the known necessary nutrients in appropriate amounts and ratios to maintain life based on the recommendations of recognized authorities including, but not limited to, government agencies and the field of pet nutrition. A pet food composition can be a dry composition (e.g., kibble), a semi-moist composition, a wet composition, or any mixture thereof. In certain embodiments, the composition can be a supplement such as gravy, drinking water, yogurt, powder, suspension, chew, treat (e.g., biscuit), or any other delivery form.

[0023] The term "effective amount" indicates that the material or amount of material is effective to achieve the intended result, such as, but not limited to, preventing, alleviating, or ameliorating one or more symptoms of a disease or health condition.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. All patents, patent applications, publications, and other references cited or referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. In the event of a conflict between the definitions in this disclosure and those in the cited references, the disclosure shall control.

[0025] The present disclosure is directed to pet food compositions and methods of using such pet food compositions for the treatment of companion animals. In certain embodiments, the pet is a canine. In other embodiments, the canine is elderly. In further embodiments, the pet is a feline. In certain embodiments, the feline is elderly. In certain embodiments, the elderly pet is at least 4, 5, 6, or 7 years old.

[0026] The inventors have surprisingly and unexpectedly discovered that providing an animal with a pet food diet comprising propolis results in an improvement in the animal's health benefits. Such improvements in health benefits may be exemplified by a number of aspects. In a first aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the animal's body weight. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to decrease the animal's food intake. In another aspect, the health benefit may be both to increase the animal's body weight and, at the same time, decrease the animal's food intake.

[0027] In one aspect, the present disclosure thus provides a pet food composition comprising propolis present in an amount of about 0.1% or more, based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. Some embodiments of the composition may have a reduced amount of antioxidants. The antioxidants included in limited amounts or excluded from the composition are butylated hydroxyanisole (“BHA”), butylated hydroxytoluene (“BHT”), tert-butylhydroquinone (“TBHQ”), vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, their tocopherol derivatives, rosemary, grape seeds, turmeric, mixtures of plants, or combinations of two or more thereof. In some embodiments, the pet food composition has a reduced amount (e.g., substantially free of or free of) of rosemary, grape seeds, turmeric, or mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the pet food composition is substantially free of antioxidants. For example, the composition may contain antioxidants in an amount of about 3% by weight or less, about 2% by weight or less, about 1% by weight or less, about 0.5% by weight or less, about 0.1% by weight or less, about 0.05% by weight or less, or about 0.01% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis. In certain embodiments, the pet food composition is free of antioxidants.

[0028] Propolis is generally a gummy natural resinous substance collected by honeybees from the buds and exudates of various plants. Propolis preferably contains one or more of pollen, flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, or combinations of two or more thereof. For example, propolis may contain flavonoids selected from flavones, flavonols, flavanones, flavanonols, chalcones, dihydrochalcones, isoflavones, isodihydroflavones, flavans, isoflavans, neoflavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and combinations of two or more thereof. Propolis preferably contains one or more flavonoids that provide anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, and anti-allergic properties. In at least one embodiment, propolis contains flavonoids selected from 2-(1-(2-methylcortnonoyloxy)-1-methylethyl)-8-oxo-1,2-dihydrofuro[2,3-H]2H-chromene, 3-methyl-but-2-enoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-8-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H,8H-pyrano[3,2-g]chromen-3-yl ester, 2H-cyclopentacyclooctene,4,5,6,7,8,9-hexahydro-1,2,2,3-tetramethyl, germacrol, dimethyl-1,3,5,6-tetramethyl-[1,3-(13C2)]bicyclo, and combinations of two or more thereof. The composition may include propolis containing one or more terpenoids selected from acyclic monoterpenes, monocyclic monoterpenes, bicyclic monoterpenes, and combinations of two or more thereof. In at least one embodiment, propolis contains terpenoids selected from dodeca-1,3,5,6,8,10-hexaene-9,10-dicarboxylate, spiro[benzo[a]cyclopenta[3,4]cyclobuta[1,2-c]cycloheptene-, 8(5H),2’-[1,3]dioxane], 6,7,7b,10a-tetrahydro-1,14-methyl-cholest-7-en-3-ol-15-one, (3α,4α)-4-methyl-stigmast-22-en-3-ol, and combinations of two or more thereof. The composition may include one or more polyphenols, such as polyphenols capable of chelating metal ions.

[0029] Propolis may be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, propolis may be present in an amount of about 0.1% or more based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. For example, propolis may be present in an amount of about 0.1 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 0.8 wt%, 1.0 wt%, about 1.2 wt%, about 1.4 wt%, about 1.6 wt%, about 1.8 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.2 wt%, about 2.4 wt%, about 2.6 wt%, about 2.8 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.2 wt%, about 3.4 wt%, about 3.6 wt%, about 3.8 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.2 wt%, about 4.4 wt%, about 4.6 wt%, about 4.8 wt%, or about 5.0 wt%, about 8.0 wt%, about 10.0 wt%, about 10.5 wt%, about 15.0 wt%, about 17.5 wt%, about 18.0 wt%, or about 20.0 wt%. In another example, propolis may be present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 10%, about 0.1% to about 7%, about 0.1% to about 5%, or about 0.1% to about 3% based on the weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. In a further embodiment, propolis is present in an amount of about 1% or more, about 2% or more, about 3% or more, about 4% or more, about 6% or more, about 10% or more, or about 15% or more based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. In a further embodiment, propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 20%, about 0.1% to about 15%, about 0.1% to about 10%, about 0.1% to about 6%, about 0.1% to about 4%, about 0.5% to about 5%, about 1% to about 15%, about 1% to about 10%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to 3%, or about 1% to about 2% based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0030] The pet food composition may contain protein and / or digestible crude protein. "Digestible crude protein" is the portion of protein that can be utilized or converted to available or free nitrogen (amino acids) after digestion by gastric enzymes. In vitro measurement of digestible crude protein may be achieved by using gastric enzymes such as pepsin, digesting the sample, and measuring the free amino acids after digestion. In vivo measurement of digestible crude protein may be achieved by measuring the protein level in the feed / food sample, feeding the sample to an animal, and measuring the amount of nitrogen collected in the animal's feces.

[0031] The protein and / or digestible crude protein of the composition may be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the protein may be present in an amount of about 10% to about 40% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. For example, the protein may be present in an amount of about 10 wt%, about 15 wt%, about 20 wt%, about 25 wt%, about 30 wt%, about 35 wt%, or about 40 wt%. In another example, the protein may be present in an amount of about 10% to about 25%, about 15% to about 25%, or about 15% to about 20% based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. In certain embodiments, the protein is present in an amount of about 12% to about 35%, about 13% to about 25%, or about 15% to about 25% based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0032] A portion of the protein in the composition may be digestible protein. For example, the composition may contain an amount of protein where about 40% by weight or more, about 50% by weight or more, about 60% by weight or more, about 70% by weight or more, about 80% by weight or more, about 90% by weight or more, about 95% by weight or more, about 98% by weight or more, or about 99% by weight or more of the protein is digestible protein. In some embodiments, for example when the desired composition promotes weight loss, the portion of the protein that is digestible protein is about 60% by weight or less, about 50% by weight or less, about 40% by weight or less, about 30% by weight or less, about 20% by weight or less, or about 10% by weight or less based on the total amount of protein in the composition. In further embodiments, the amount of protein that is digestible protein is about 10 to about 99% by weight, about 10 to about 95% by weight, about 10 to about 90% by weight, about 10 to about 70% by weight, about 10 to about 50% by weight, about 10 to about 30% by weight, about 30 to about 99% by weight, about 30 to about 95% by weight, about 30 to about 90% by weight, about 30 to about 70% by weight, about 30 to about 50% by weight, about 50 to about 99% by weight, about 50 to about 95% by weight, about 50 to about 90% by weight, about 50 to about 70% by weight, or about 70 to about 99% by weight, about 70 to about 95% by weight, about 70 to about 90% by weight, including the ranges and subranges therein.

[0033] The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain additional ingredients suitable for use in pet food compositions. Examples of such ingredients include, but are not limited to, lipids, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, amino acids, minerals, trace elements, vitamins, additives.

[0034] Carbohydrates can be supplied from any of a variety of component sources known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to oat fiber, cellulose, peanut hulls, beet pulp, parboiled rice, corn starch, corn gluten meal, and any combination of these component sources. Cereals that supply carbohydrates can include, but are not limited to, wheat, corn, barley, and rice. The carbohydrate content of the food can be determined by any number of methods known to those skilled in the art. Generally, the percentage of carbohydrates can be calculated as nitrogen-free extract (「NFE」), which can be calculated as follows. NFE = 100%-(moisture%)-(protein%)-(lipid%)-(ash%)-(crude fiber%). The amount of carbohydrates present in the composition (e.g., calculated as NFE) can be about 10 to about 90 wt%, about 10 to about 70 wt%, about 10 to about 50 wt%, about 10 to about 40 wt%, about 10 to about 30 wt%, about 10 to about 20 wt%, about 20 to about 90 wt%, about 20 to about 70 wt%, about 20 to about 50 wt%, about 20 to about 40 wt%, about 30 to about 90 wt%, about 30 to about 70 wt%, about 30 to about 50 wt%, about 30 to about 40 wt%, about 50 to about 90 wt%, about 50 to about 70 wt%, or about 70 to about 90 wt% based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis.

[0035] Dietary fiber refers to the components of plants that are resistant to digestion by animal digestive enzymes. Dietary fibers include soluble fibers and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers are resistant to digestion and absorption in the small intestine and are completely or partially fermented in the large intestine. Examples include beet pulp, guar gum, chicory root, psyllium, pectin, blueberries, cranberries, pumpkins, apples, oats, legumes, citrus fruits, barley, or peas. Insoluble fibers can be supplied from a variety of component sources, including, for example, cellulose, whole wheat products, wheat oat, corn bran, flaxseeds, grapes, celery, green beans, cauliflower, potato skins, fruit skins, vegetable skins, peanut hulls, and soy fiber. Crude fiber includes indigestible components contained in the cell walls and cell contents of plants such as grains (e.g., the husks of grains such as rice, corn, and legumes). The typical amount of crude fiber in the compositions of the present disclosure can be about 0-10 wt%, about 1-about 5 wt%, about 1-about 3 wt%, or about 1-about 2 wt% based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0036] The pet food composition may contain whole food fiber. The whole food fiber can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the whole food fiber can be present in an amount of less than about 20% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the whole food fiber is present in an amount of about 10% to about 20% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. For example, the whole food fiber can be present in an amount of about 10.0 wt%, about 10.5 wt%, about 11.0 wt%, about 11.5 wt%, about 12.0 wt%, about 12.5 wt%, about 13.0 wt%, about 13.5 wt%, about 14.0 wt%, about 14.5 wt%, about 15.0 wt%, about 15.5 wt%, about 16.0 wt%, about 16.5 wt%, about 17.0 wt%, about 17.5 wt%, about 18.0 wt%, about 18.5 wt%, about 19.0 wt%, about 19.5 wt%, or about 20.0 wt%. In another example, the whole food fiber can be present in an amount of about 10% to about 18%, about 12% to about 18%, or about 15% to about 18% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In further embodiments, the whole food fiber is present in an amount of about 15% to about 20%, about 16% to about 19%, or about 16% to about 18% based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0037] Amino acids, including essential amino acids, can be added to the compositions of the present disclosure as free amino acids or can be supplied to the compositions of the present disclosure by any number of ingredient sources (such as crude protein). Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be newly synthesized or can only be synthesized in insufficient amounts by living organisms and must therefore be supplied in the diet. Essential amino acids vary from species to species, depending on the metabolism of the living organism. For example, it is generally understood that the essential amino acids for dogs and cats (as well as humans) are phenylalanine, leucine, methionine, lysine, isoleucine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine, and arginine. In addition, taurine, while not technically an amino acid but a derivative of cysteine, is an essential nutrient for cats.

[0038] The composition of the present invention may optionally contain lipids. The term "lipid" generally refers to a lipid or mixture of lipids that may generally be solid or liquid at normal room temperature (e.g., 25°C) and pressure (e.g., 1 atmosphere). In some cases, the lipid may be a viscous liquid or an amorphous solid at standard room temperature and standard pressure.

[0039] Lipids can be supplied by any of a variety of component sources known to those skilled in the art, such as meat, meat by-products, canola oil, fish oil, plants, etc. Vegetable lipid sources include wheat, flaxseed, rye, barley, rice, sorghum, corn, oats, millet, wheat germ, corn germ, soybeans, peanuts, cottonseed, as well as oils derived from these and other vegetable lipid sources. The composition of the present disclosure may contain at least about 9% by weight (or about 9% to about 25% by weight, or about 10% to about 20% by weight, or about 10% to about 15% by weight) of total lipids based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In some cases, the lipids in the composition are crude lipids. The crude lipids may be contained in the composition in an amount of about 10% to about 20% by weight, about 10% to about 18% by weight, about 10% to about 16% by weight, about 12% to about 20% by weight, about 12% to about 18% by weight, or about 12% to about 16% by weight based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis. In some cases, it may be preferable for more than about 50% by weight, more than about 60% by weight, more than about 70% by weight, more than about 80% by weight, or more than about 90% by weight of the total lipids to be obtained from animal sources. Alternatively, more than about 50% by weight, more than about 60% by weight, more than about 70% by weight, more than about 80% by weight, or more than about 90% by weight of the total lipids may be obtained from plant sources.

[0040] The compositions of the present disclosure can also contain one or more minerals and / or trace elements (e.g., calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, or iron salts) having counterions such as chloride, iodide, fluoride, sulfide, or oxide, in amounts necessary to avoid deficiencies and maintain health. These amounts are known to those skilled in the art, for example, as provided in the Official Publication of the Associate of American Feed Control Officials, Inc. (“AAFCO”), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, 2006. Typical amounts of minerals are from about 0.1% to about 4%, or from about 1% to about 2%.

[0041] The compositions of the present invention can also contain vitamins in amounts necessary to avoid deficiencies and maintain health. These amounts and measurement methods are known to those skilled in the art. For example, the Official Publication of the Associate of American Feed Control Officials, Inc. (“AAFCO”), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, 2006 provides the recommended amounts of these components for dogs and cats. As contemplated herein, vitamins include, but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin B 1 、vitamin B 2 、vitamin B 6 、vitamin B 12 、vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin H (biotin), vitamin K, folic acid, choline, inositol, niacin, pantothenic acid. Typical amounts of vitamins in the compositions of the present invention are from about 0 to about 3%, or from about 1% to about 2%, based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis.

[0042] The nutritional components of the pet food composition may be derived from a variety of food sources. By way of non-limiting example, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, fiber nutrients, vitamins may be provided by the use of one or more of animal sources (such as chicken, beef, pork, etc.) and / or plant sources (such as corn gluten meal, wheat gluten, gluten, citrus pulp, carrots, rice, spinach, tomatoes, etc.). In certain embodiments, the nutritional components are provided by utilizing at least citrus pulp, carrots, rice, spinach, and tomatoes.

[0043] The compositions of the present disclosure can additionally contain other additives, such as flavor enhancers and stabilizers, in amounts and combinations well known to those skilled in the art. Stabilizing substances include, for example, substances that tend to increase the shelf life of the composition. Other examples of such other additives that may potentially be suitable for inclusion in the compositions of the present invention include, for example, preservatives, colorants, antioxidants, flavorings, synergists and scavengers, packaging gases, stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickeners, gelling agents, wetting agents. The list of the foregoing additives, while potentially suitable in some embodiments, one or more of the foregoing additives may be excluded from other embodiments of the composition. Examples of emulsifiers and / or thickeners include, for example, gelatin, cellulose ether, starch, starch ester, starch ether, modified starch. The concentration of such additives in the composition can typically be up to about 5 wt% based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis. In some embodiments, the concentration of such additives (particularly where such additives are primarily nutritional balance agents such as vitamins and minerals) is from about 0 to about 2.0 wt% based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis. In some embodiments, the concentration of such additives (again particularly where such additives are primarily nutritional balance agents) is from about 0 to about 1.0 wt% based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis.

[0044] The pet food compositions disclosed herein can be wet compositions or dry compositions, and the propolis and other ingredients can be incorporated into the food composition or incorporated onto the surface of any composition component, for example, by spraying, agglomerating, sprinkling, or depositing on the surface.

[0045] In certain embodiments, pet food compositions of any viscosity or moisture content are contemplated, for example, the compositions of the present invention can be dry, moist, or semi-moist food compositions for animals. "Semi-moist" refers to a food composition containing about 25% to about 35% moisture. A "moist" food refers to a food composition having a moisture content of about 60% to 90% or more. A "dry" food refers to a food composition having a moisture content of about 3% to about 12%, and is often manufactured in the form of pieces or kibbles.

[0046] In the pet food industry, foods are generally classified as "wet" or "dry". Wet foods have a relatively high amount of moisture and are typically present in cans or containers from which air is substantially or completely excluded. Examples of such foods are liquid gravies or "chunked and gravied" individual solid particles in the presence of a loaf-type material that generally takes the shape of the container. Dry foods are generally baked or extruded materials, which are then typically cut into individual shaped pieces known as kibbles. Propolis can be easily incorporated into wet or dry foods by conventional means.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the pet food composition contains moisture. The moisture can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the moisture can be present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. For example, the moisture can be present in an amount of about 5.0 wt%, about 5.5 wt%, about 6.0 wt%, about 6.5 wt%, about 7.0 wt%, about 7.5 wt%, about 8.0 wt%, about 8.5 wt%, about 9.0 wt%, about 9.5 wt%, about 10.0 wt%, about 10.5 wt%, about 11.0 wt%, about 11.5 wt%, about 12.0 wt%, about 12.5 wt%, about 13.0 wt%, about 13.5 wt%, about 14.0 wt%, about 14.5 wt%, or about 15.0 wt%. In another example, the moisture can be present in an amount of about 6% to about 12%, about 9% to about 13%, about 9% to about 11%, or about 9% to about 13% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the moisture is present in an amount of about 5% to about 12%, about 6% to about 11%, or about 7% to about 10.0% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In further embodiments, the moisture is present in an amount of about 65% to about 85%, about 60% to about 80%, or about 60% to about 75% based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the pet food is in a dry form. In certain embodiments, the pet food is kibble. In certain embodiments, the kibble is dry. In other embodiments, the kibble contains moisture.

[0049] In certain aspects, the present application further discloses a method of making any of the compositions of the present disclosure. In the preparation of the compositions of the present invention in wet or canned form, any ingredient (e.g., propolis, protein, carbohydrate) can generally be incorporated into the composition, for example, during processing of the formulation, such as during and / or after mixing with other components of the composition. The distribution of these components into the composition can be achieved by conventional means. In some embodiments, the ground animal and poultry proteinaceous tissues are mixed with fish oil, grain kernels, other nutritionally balanced ingredients, other ingredients including special purpose additives (e.g., vitamin and mineral mixtures, inorganic salts, cellulose and beet pulp, bulking agents, and the like), and a sufficient amount of water is added for processing. These ingredients can be mixed in a suitable container for heating while blending the components. For example, heating of the mixture can be carried out in any suitable manner, such as by direct steam injection or by using a container equipped with a heat exchanger. Following the addition of the final ingredient, the mixture can be heated to a temperature range of from about 50°F (10°C) to about 212°F (100°C). In some cases, the mixture can be heated to a temperature range of from about 70°F (21°C) to about 140°F (60°C). Temperatures outside these ranges are generally also acceptable but may be commercially impracticable without using other processing aids. When heated to an appropriate temperature, the material will typically be in the form of a thick liquid. This thick liquid can be filled into cans. Once filled into the cans, the lids are attached and the containers are hermetically sealed. The sealed cans are then placed in conventional equipment designed to sterilize the contents. This is usually accomplished by heating to a temperature above about 230°F (110°C) for an appropriate time, which depends, for example, on the temperature used and the composition.

[0050] Alternatively, the pet food composition can be prepared in dry form using conventional processes. Typically, dry ingredients such as, for example, animal protein, vegetable protein, grains, etc. are ground and mixed together. Next, wet or liquid ingredients such as lipids, oils, animal proteins, water are added and mixed with the dry mixture. The mixture is then processed into kibble or similar dry pieces. Kibble is often formed using an extrusion process where a mixture of dry and wet ingredients is mechanically worked at high pressure and high temperature, pushed through small openings, and cut into kibble by a rotating knife. The wet kibble is then optionally dried and / or coated using one or more topical coatings which may include, for example, flavorants, lipids, oils, powders, and the like. Kibble can also be made from dough using a process of baking rather than extrusion, in which the dough is placed in a mold and then heat-treated by drying.

[0051] The pet food composition may be administered at an effective frequency and duration to either reduce the food intake of a companion animal consuming the pet food composition or to reduce food intake and increase body weight. In certain embodiments, the composition is administered at least once a day, and in certain situations, the composition is administered less frequently, such as twice a week or once a week. In certain embodiments, the administration can continue for at least about 1 week, such as at least about 2 weeks, at least about 3 weeks, at least about 1 month, at least about 2 months, at least about 3 months, at least about 4 months, at least about 5 months, at least about 6 months, at least about 1 year, at least about 2 years, or at least about 3 years. In one embodiment, the administration is continued from the start for substantially the remainder of the animal's life. Generally, the pet food composition is administered to the companion animal when the companion animal consumes the pet food composition.

[0052] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for reducing the food intake of a companion animal, the method comprising feeding a companion animal a pet food composition comprising propolis as described above and within the examples. In a preferred embodiment, the reduction in food intake is greater than the reduction that would occur in the absence of ingestion of the inventive composition as described herein. In certain embodiments, the change in food intake is at least about 7 g, about 7.7 g, about 8 g, about 9 g, or more grams per metabolic body weight.

[0053] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for reducing the food intake of a companion animal and increasing its body weight, the method comprising feeding a companion animal a pet food composition comprising propolis as described above and within the examples. The method can be used to reduce advanced glycation end products by at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, or preferably at least 30% after daily feeding of the pet over 10 days or more, 15 days or more, or 30 days or more. In a preferred embodiment, the reduction in food intake and the increase in body weight are greater than the reduction and increase that would occur in the absence of ingestion of the inventive composition as described herein. In certain embodiments, the change in food intake is at least about 7 g, about 8 g, about 9 g, or more grams per metabolic body weight. In certain embodiments, the increase in body weight is at least about 0.3 kg, about 0.37 kg, about 0.4 kg, about 0.5 kg, or more kilograms.

Examples

[0054] The examples described herein and other implementations are illustrative and are not intended to limit the description to the full scope of the compositions and methods of the present disclosure. Equivalent changes, modifications, and variations of specific implementations, materials, compositions, and methods may be made within the scope of the present disclosure with substantially similar results.

[0055] Example 1 Forty elderly dogs were given their pre - test food for 30 days before feeding. Then, the treatment period was started, and at that time the dogs were randomly assigned to one of four groups (each having 10 dogs). Thereafter, each group was given a food composition containing only propolis, or a food composition containing only antioxidants, or a food composition containing both propolis and antioxidants, or a food composition containing neither of these two components. These food compositions were fed to the dogs for 30 days. Throughout the test, daily food intake was measured and body weight was measured once a week. The average daily intake and metabolic body weight of each dog were calculated relative to its body weight. Here, the metabolic body weight is equal to the 3 / 4 power of the animal's body weight (in kilograms). The amount of food was provided such that body weight was maintained by ingestion. The average of the difference in body weight (Δ body weight) after the pre - feeding period and the treatment period was calculated for each treatment food. The change in food intake per metabolic weight was calculated by the formula "(change in food) / (body weight (Kg) X 0.75)".

[0056] The food compositions were formulated as shown in Table 1. The numerical values represent the weight percentages of their components based on the weight of the pet food composition. The composition contained about 7.4 - 10.3% moisture.

Table 1

[0057] Example 2 The results of the feeding test from Example 1 are shown in Table 2.

Table 2

[0058] As shown in Table 2, in animals fed a pet food composition containing only propolis, a redistribution of energy utilization in elderly dogs to assist in maintaining body weight while simultaneously reducing the amount of food consumed by the animals was shown.

[0059] Example 3 After feeding 20 cats aged 7 years or older for one month with an exemplary food composition containing propolis, or a comparative food composition, the effects of the exemplary food composition on the levels of uremic toxins and advanced glycation end products in cats were evaluated. The 20 cats underwent a one-month washout period with maintenance food before being given either the exemplary food composition or the comparative composition. The formulations of the exemplary food composition and the comparative food composition are shown in Table 1. Notably, the comparative food composition had the same formulation as the exemplary food composition, except that the comparative food composition did not contain propolis.

Table 3

[0060] Twenty cats were randomly assigned to two groups and fed for one month with an exemplary food composition containing propolis or a comparative food composition without propolis. Samples for plasma metabolomics were collected at the end of the washout period and at the end of the feeding period. The changes in the levels of each metabolite from after the washout period to the end of the feeding period (end of feeding - end of washout) were compared to assess the statistical differences in metabolite levels related to feeding.

[0061] The food containing propolis resulted in a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the plasma concentrations of uremic toxins including 2,4-dichlorophenol sulfate, 4-methoxyphenol sulfate, 2-aminophenol sulfate, phenol sulfate, 3-acetylphenol sulfate, 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3-methoxycatechol sulfate, guaiacol sulfate, N6-methyllysine, quinurate, N-acetylquinurenine. Table 4 shows the average levels of each of the aforementioned uremic toxins after feeding either the exemplary food composition or the comparative composition for one month.

Table 4

[0062] As can be seen in Figure 1, the exemplary food composition resulted in a significant reduction in uremic toxins.

[0063] The levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in cats were also determined and evaluated. AGEs are formed by the glycation of amino acids such as lysine. An increase in the accumulation of AGEs in the blood is associated with aging, various disease states, and oxidative stress. As shown in Table 5 below, cats given the exemplary food composition had a significant decrease in the plasma concentrations of AGEs, namely pyrraline (P = 0.0014) and N6-carboxymethyllysine (CML) (P = 0.0029). The exemplary food composition also resulted in a significant decrease in methionine sulfoxide (P = 0.0265), an oxidative stress marker. Figure 2 shows the significant decrease in AGEs and oxidative markers in cats administered the exemplary food composition.

Table 5

[0064] The present invention has been described with reference to several embodiments that are set forth in considerable detail for the purpose of providing a complete disclosure of the invention, but these embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit or represent an exhaustive listing of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined from the claims appended hereto. Further, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous changes may be made in these details without departing from the spirit and principles of the invention.

Claims

1. 1. A pet food composition comprising: A pet food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

2. 10. The pet food composition of claim 1, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1 to about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

3. The pet food composition of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.5 to about 15 weight percent, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

4. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-3, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 1 to about 10 weight percent, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

5. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-4, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 1 to about 5 weight percent, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

6. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-5, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 1 to about 3 weight percent, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

7. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-6, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 1 to about 2 weight percent, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

8. The pet food composition of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the propolis comprises pollen, flavonoids, polyphenols, terpenoids, or a combination of two or more thereof.

9. 9. The pet food composition of claim 8, wherein the flavonoid is selected from flavones, flavonols, flavanones, flavanonols, chalcones, dihydrochalcones, isoflavones, isodihydroflavones, flavans, isoflavones, neoflavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and combinations of two or more thereof.

10. 10. The pet food composition of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the flavonoid is selected from 2-(1-(2-methylcortonoyloxy)-1-methylethyl)-8-oxo-1,2-dihydrofurano[2,3-H]2H-chromene, 3-methyl-but-2-enoic acid, 2,2-dimethyl-8-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H,8H-pyrano[3,2-g]chromen-3-yl ester, 2H-cyclopentacyclooctene,4,5,6,7,8,9-hexahydro-1,2,2,3-tetramethyl,germanicol, dimethyl-1,3,5,6-tetramethyl-[1,3-(13C2)]bicycle, and combinations of two or more thereof.

11. 9. The pet food composition of claim 8, wherein the terpenoid comprises an acyclic monoterpene, a monocyclic monoterpene, a bicyclic monoterpene, or a combination of two or more thereof.

12. 12. The pet food composition of claim 8 or claim 11, wherein the terpenoid is selected from dodeca-1,3,5,6,8,10-hexaene-9,10-dicarboxylate, spiro[benzo[a]cyclopenta[3,4]cyclobuta[1,2-c]cycloheptene-,8(5H),2'-[1,3]dioxane], 6,7,7b,10a-tetrahydro-1,14-methyl-cholest-7-en-3-ol-15-one, (3α,4α)-4-methyl-stigmast-22-en-3-ol, and combinations of two or more thereof.

13. The pet food composition according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the propolis comprises pollen and one or more of flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids.

14. 14. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-13, wherein the composition is substantially free (optionally free) of at least one of butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, tert-butylhydroquinone, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, tocopherols, and derivatives thereof.

15. 15. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-14, wherein the composition is substantially free (optionally free) of butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, tert-butylhydroquinone, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, tocopherols, and derivatives thereof.

16. The pet food composition of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the composition is substantially free of antioxidants.

17. The pet food composition of any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the composition is free of antioxidants.

18. The pet food composition of any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises from about 6 to about 12 weight percent moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

19. The pet food composition of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the composition comprises from about 65 to about 85% by weight of moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

20. The pet food composition of any of claims 1 to 19, wherein the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, and tomato.

21. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-20, further comprising about 10 to about 40 wt. % protein, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

22. 22. The pet food composition of claim 21, wherein from about 10 to about 99% by weight of the protein is digestible protein.

23. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-22, further comprising from about 9 to about 25 wt. % lipid, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

24. 24. The food composition of claim 23, wherein about 50% by weight or more of the total lipids are obtained from animal sources.

25. 24. The food composition of claim 23, wherein about 80% by weight or more of the total lipids are obtained from animal sources.

26. 24. The food composition of claim 23, wherein about 50% by weight or more of the total lipids are obtained from vegetable sources.

27. The pet food composition of any of claims 1-26, further comprising from about 10 to about 90% by weight of carbohydrate, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

28. 1. A composition for reducing food intake in a companion animal, said composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than 0.1% by weight, all weight percentages being based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis.

29. 30. The composition of claim 28, wherein the companion animal is a canine or feline.

30. A composition useful for increasing weight while decreasing food intake, said composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than 0.1% by weight, all weight percentages being based on the total weight of the composition on a dry matter basis.

31. 31. The composition of claim 30, wherein the companion animal is a canine or feline.

32. 1. A method for reducing food intake in a companion animal, the method comprising feeding the companion animal an effective amount of a pet food composition, the pet food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1 wt. %, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1 to about 20 wt.%, about 0.5 to about 15 wt.%, about 1 to about 10 wt.%, about 1 to about 5 wt.%, about 1 to about 3 wt.%, or about 1 to about 2 wt.%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

34. 34. The method of claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the pet food composition is substantially free of antioxidants.

35. The method of any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the composition does not contain an antioxidant.

36. The method of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the composition comprises from about 6 to about 12% by weight water.

37. The method of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the composition comprises from about 65 to about 85% by weight water.

38. The method of any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, and tomato.

39. The method of any one of claims 32 to 38, wherein the companion animal is a canine or feline.

40. 1. A method for reducing food intake and increasing weight gain in a companion animal, the method comprising feeding the companion animal an effective amount of a pet food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

41. 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the propolis is present in an amount of about 0.1 to about 20 wt.%, about 0.5 to about 15 wt.%, about 1 to about 10 wt.%, about 1 to about 5 wt.%, about 1 to about 3 wt.%, or about 1 to about 2 wt.%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis.

42. 42. The method of claim 40 or claim 41, wherein the composition is substantially free of antioxidants.

43. The method of any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the composition does not contain an antioxidant.

44. The method of any one of claims 40 to 43, wherein the composition comprises from about 6 to about 12 wt. % moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

45. The method of any one of claims 40 to 43, wherein the composition comprises about 65 to about 85% by weight of moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

46. 46. ​​The method of any one of claims 40 to 45, wherein the composition further comprises citrus pulp, carrot, rice, spinach, and tomato.

47. The method of any one of claims 40 to 46, wherein the companion animal is a canine or feline.

48. 47. The method of any one of claims 40 to 46, wherein the composition is fed to the companion animal at least once daily for 30 days or more.

49. 1. A food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, about 10 to about 40% by weight protein, about 9 to about 25% by weight lipid, and about 10 to about 90% by weight carbohydrate, all weight percentages being based on the total weight of said food composition on a dry matter basis.

50. 1. Use of a food composition for reducing advanced glycation end products and uremic toxins in a companion animal, said food composition comprising propolis in an amount greater than about 0.1% by weight, about 10 to about 40% by weight protein, about 9 to about 25% by weight lipid, and about 10 to about 90% by weight carbohydrate, all weight percentages being based on the total weight of said food composition on a dry matter basis.

51. 51. Use of the food composition of claim 50 to reduce the advanced glycation end products by at least 10% after daily feeding to a pet for 10 or more days.

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